The president of Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture extended greetings to Christian communities worldwide on the birth of Jesus Christ and the start of the New Year, urging greater international cooperation and closer economic ties.

Samad Hassanzadeh said the New Year offered an opportunity for countries that respect the teachings of Jesus Christ to review and expand their relations with others on the basis of constructive engagement and mutual respect.

He stressed that closer relations between Islam and Christianity should be seen as a key principle for strengthening solidarity among nations, adding that religious scholars should give renewed attention to promoting interfaith understanding.

Hassanzadeh said the business community believed it could play an important role in achieving lasting peace and improving global welfare by expanding economic and trade cooperation.

He added that the Iran Chamber of Commerce stood ready to deepen economic relations, exchange expertise and develop joint cooperation with chambers of commerce and economic actors around the world, based on mutual respect, shared interests and sustainable outcomes.

Hassanzadeh expressed hope that the New Year would bring health, calm, economic prosperity and stronger international cooperation for business communities and peace-seeking nations worldwide.